Wedding Photography

Last updated: October 29, 2008

It is important to find a good photographer for your wedding day. You want excellent pictures that make memories last for a lifetime. First, decide if you want both a photographer and a videographer. Videos of your wedding day can be a great keepsake, and also a good way for friends and family who weren’t able to attend to see your special day.

Your pick
Before you choose your photographer/videographer, figure out specifically what you want. How long do you need them? How many photos will you want? What parts of the wedding do you want specifically captured? If time becomes an issue, prioritize the types of photos you will want. Would you rather have more time for bride/groom photos, or more time for family photos? Work with your photographer to find the best times for each photo session. It might be best to show up a little early and do bridal photos before the ceremony. The bride and groom may also choose whether or not to do the wedding couple photos before the ceremony. This can save time if you have a limited amount of time for your reception, and you won’t feel so rushed.

Your wedding photos may include:

Wedding ceremony

Wedding reception

Bridal portraits

Groom photos

Wedding party photos

Wedding couple photos

Family photos

Rehearsal/rehearsal dinner photos

Engagement photos

Choosing your photographer/videographer:
Start looking around early, and research all kinds of photographers to find the best fit for your wedding. Most photographers have a portfolio of work they have previously done. As you look through these photos, you can get a sense of the photographer’s style. Also, are the photos clear, good lighting, sharp, special effects smooth, etc? Did they capture the most important moments of the wedding?

For videographers, are their images clear, good lighting? Are the transitions smooth? How is the sound quality? Can you understand what everyone is saying? What kind of music do they use to compliment the visuals?

You will be spending a good amount of time with your photographer on your wedding day, so be sure that you like them and feel comfortable around them. They will be with you from start to finish, even though you may not notice most of the time!

Ask as many questions as you need to. Find out what type of equipment the photographer uses, does he/she shoot in digital or 35 mm? Do they use different lenses to get the best shot? Is your photographer able to do special effects?

Is your photographer personable, well dressed, on time, professional?

Price
The cost will depend on:

The amount of time

Developing prints

Extra/special photo equipment, if applicable

Assembling a wedding album

Quantity of photos

Quantity of videos

Special effects/photo editing

Travel cost

Must-shoot
You might want to make a must-shoot list for your photographer. Good photographers will capture the most important moments of your wedding day, but if you want a specific shot, put it on your must-shoot list! You might find a pose you really like for a bridal shot, or you might want a photo of your new husband dancing with your grandma at the reception. Just keep in mind that your photographer probably has done more than one wedding and knows which photos to take. So don’t overload your must-shoot list with obvious shots such as the cake cutting, or first dance.